kata-kata kasar
The English phrase 'bad words' is translated into Indonesian as kata-kata kasar.
The term kata-kata kasar is used to describe both mild insults and heavy profanity, depending on the context of the conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of kata (word), the reduplicated form kata-kata (words) and the adjective kasar (rough/rude).
Which one should you use?
While kata-kata kasar specifically implies rudeness or vulgarity, the term kata-kata kotor (dirty words) is also frequently used to describe profanity.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single bad word, you can use the singular form kata kasar instead of the reduplicated kata-kata kasar.
Did you know?
- Using the wrong level of formality when addressing a superior is often categorized as using kata-kata kasar, regardless of whether the words themselves are vulgar.
- In Indonesian, the opposite of kasar is halus, which means 'smooth'. A person who speaks with halus language is considered socially graceful and refined.
- Because of the importance of social harmony, a perfectly polite word can be transformed into kata-kata kasar simply by changing your tone of voice to sound unrefined.
Examples in context
- Jangan menggunakan kata-kata kasar di sini.Do not use bad words here.
- Dia sering mengucapkan kata-kata kasar.He often says bad words.
- Saya tidak suka mendengar kata-kata kasar.I do not like hearing bad words.
Example conversation
Putri and Dimas are discussing a movie they just watched.
- PutriFilm itu terlalu banyak kata-kata kasar.That movie has too many bad words.
- DimasIya, itu membuat saya tidak nyaman.Yes, it makes me uncomfortable.
- PutriApakah kamu merasa terganggu, Dimas?Did you feel disturbed, Dimas?
- DimasTentu, saya sangat tidak suka.Of course, I really dislike it.
